SPECIAL OLYMPICS ARKANSAS GRIEVANCE POLICY
Purpose
Special Olympics Arkansas (SOAR) is committed to ensuring a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for all stakeholders. This Grievance Policy provides a clear and accessible process for resolving concerns or complaints in a fair and timely manner.
Scope
This policy applies to all SOAR stakeholders including, but not limited to:
Policy Statement
SOAR encourages open communication and is committed to addressing concerns promptly, respectfully, and confidentially. Grievances should be raised without fear of retaliation or prejudice. We value feedback as a tool for continuous improvement.
Special Olympics Arkansas (SOAR) is committed to ensuring a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for all stakeholders. This Grievance Policy provides a clear and accessible process for resolving concerns or complaints in a fair and timely manner.
Scope
This policy applies to all SOAR stakeholders including, but not limited to:
- Athletes
- Unified partners
- Families and guardians
- Coaches
- Volunteers
- Staff
- Sponsors and donors
- Local Program Coordinators
- Board Members
Policy Statement
SOAR encourages open communication and is committed to addressing concerns promptly, respectfully, and confidentially. Grievances should be raised without fear of retaliation or prejudice. We value feedback as a tool for continuous improvement.
Grievance Process
Step 1: Informal Resolution
Whenever possible, grievances should first be addressed directly between the individuals involved or with the immediate local program representative (e.g., coach or area director). Often, misunderstandings can be resolved through open dialogue and good faith efforts.
Step 2: Formal Grievance Submission
If informal resolution is not successful or appropriate, a formal grievance may be submitted using the SOAR Violation Reporting Form, which can be requested from the SOAR State Office or found on the SOAR website.
Required Information:
Where to Submit:
Email: [email protected]
Mail:
Special Olympics Arkansas
Attn: Grievance Committee
2115 Main Street
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Step 3: Grievance Review
Grievances will be reviewed by Grievance Committee that is formed based on each situation, which may include staff leadership, board representation, and legal counsel (as needed). The committee will:
Step 4: Resolution & Response
The decision will be communicated in writing. Possible outcomes may include:
Step 5: Appeal Process
If the complainant disagrees with the outcome, they may submit an appeal in writing within 10 business days of the resolution. The appeal will be reviewed by the SOAR Board Chair (or designated representative), whose decision will be final.
Whenever possible, grievances should first be addressed directly between the individuals involved or with the immediate local program representative (e.g., coach or area director). Often, misunderstandings can be resolved through open dialogue and good faith efforts.
Step 2: Formal Grievance Submission
If informal resolution is not successful or appropriate, a formal grievance may be submitted using the SOAR Violation Reporting Form, which can be requested from the SOAR State Office or found on the SOAR website.
Required Information:
- Name and contact information of the person submitting the grievance
- Relationship to SOAR (e.g., athlete, coach, volunteer)
- Date and location of the incident
- Detailed description of the concern or complaint
- Names of individuals involved
- Any steps already taken to resolve the issue
Where to Submit:
Email: [email protected]
Mail:
Special Olympics Arkansas
Attn: Grievance Committee
2115 Main Street
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Step 3: Grievance Review
Grievances will be reviewed by Grievance Committee that is formed based on each situation, which may include staff leadership, board representation, and legal counsel (as needed). The committee will:
- Acknowledge receipt within 5 business days
- Review all information and may request further details
- Conduct interviews or gather documentation if necessary
- Make a determination within 15–30 business days (depending on complexity)
Step 4: Resolution & Response
The decision will be communicated in writing. Possible outcomes may include:
- No action (if complaint is unsubstantiated)
- Mediation or corrective action, including visiting and completing the protective behaviors course
- Suspension or dismissal from participation (for serious policy violations)
- Policy or procedural changes (if needed)
Step 5: Appeal Process
If the complainant disagrees with the outcome, they may submit an appeal in writing within 10 business days of the resolution. The appeal will be reviewed by the SOAR Board Chair (or designated representative), whose decision will be final.
Confidentiality
All grievance matters will be handled confidentially to the extent possible. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.
non-Relation
No individual will face retaliation for filing a grievance in good faith. Retaliation is a serious violation of this policy and will be dealt with accordingly.
recordkeeping
The SOAR Grievance Committee will maintain confidential records of all formal grievances and resolutions in accordance with organizational policies and legal requirements.
policy review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the SOAR Board and updated as needed to reflect best practices and the evolving needs of the organization.
File a grievance
If you wish to file a grievance please click the link below. SOAR is committed to ensuring a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for all stakeholders.
- Online grievance form
